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ADHD and Me

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"My name is Malory, I'm 8 years old, and I have ADHD. ADHD is short for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It can mean different things for different kids. My mom says that it's part of what makes me special. She says that because of it, I am unique. Being unique means that you are one of a kind. That doesn't mean that I'm alone though..."

Meet eight year old Malory. Malory has a learning disability, but she doesn't let that stop her from enjoying her life. Whenever she is feeling blue, her mother and father remind her of the list of those who love her. Ms. Julie, her art teacher, understands what it is like to be different. She was born Autistic. Ms.Julie encourages Malory to express herself through art.

Inspired by a true story, written by Chelsea Radojcic and illustrated by Leonie Cheetham. This heartwarming story inspires hope, and reminds us of the truth that we sometimes forget; our differences make us beautiful...

18 pages, Hardcover

First published February 21, 2021

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About the author

Chelsea DiCicco

8 books30 followers
ADHD Girl • Kidlit Writer, Blogger & Feature Interview Host • Former Children's Librarian, now Registered Behavior Technician for kids with ASD • Founder & Creator Chelsea’s World of Books Literary Blog • Author ADHD and Me • PBParty Finalist 2025

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5 stars
53 (71%)
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16 (21%)
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4 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for Natalie  all_books_great_and_small .
3,303 reviews197 followers
July 7, 2021
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

ADHD and Me is a beautiful watercolour illustrated picture book for children who have ADHD to help them understand just how unique, special and loved they are being themselves.
I lived how this book showed the negative sides many people don't even think of with children with ADHD such as the medication they take and how it can stop them eating, make them sick, give them tummy ache etc and how isolated, embarrassed and alone these children can often feel because they are different.
This book was beautifully written and is a breath of fresh air to see books about this subject for children nit just for their parents/carers.
Profile Image for donna backshall.
843 reviews240 followers
July 2, 2021
Wonderful watercolors illustrate this adorable book exploring a young girl named Malory and her frustrations with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Seriously, the watercolors are gorgeous enough, I felt a little distracted myself!

Labels and diagnoses are scary and sometimes leave one feeling icky. It's hard to feel a good and unique kind of special when there's already a stigma around the term "special". Malory's parents do a great job of supporting her and making sure she knows she's perfect just the way she is, even if school and other places might misunderstand or question her activity levels and ability to focus. They teach her that different doesn't equal bad and embrace her uniqueness.

As a side note: I'm a little confused by the use of a cursive font in a children's book. Even sparingly, it makes little sense. My sons are grown and I know they didn't learn to read cursive in school twenty years ago.
1 review1 follower
April 4, 2017
One thing I really appreciate about this book, is that there are not many books that are told from the child's perspective. There are many books on self help for adults on how to deal with ADHD for children, but none that really help the child learn how to live with it. A lot of people may not feel that ADHD is a big deal, but to the children who do face this, it can seem like a big deal to them. This book is a wonderful resource for kids, and instills a hopeful message. Bravo!
Profile Image for Georgina Warren.
Author 1 book137 followers
October 23, 2025
Inspiring and creative story for children with ADHD

I really enjoyed the illustrations in this book! One thing I will say is that this story of Mallory and her family will resonate with other young readers that have ADHD and anyone who wants to get more informed about the traits of a person with ADHD. This is just one of many stories from the perspective of a girl with ADHD. It will open up many conversations between kids and their parents and teachers. The most important lessons to take away from this book is to build a solid support network of trusted friends and identify ways to manage different situations and habits so that the person can feel comfortable. In this book, the girl isn’t trying to fit in with her class. She is trying to find her own way to succeed without masking or being cured. Self acceptance is key. I will say that the style of storytelling is more informative than entertaining, but it will be useful to many families.
1 review1 follower
April 15, 2017
I loved the book.. the illustrations/pics were perfect with the story. I Felt a connection with Malory because my niece had ADHD. I love the patience of the mom and dad too!!Beautiful story!!!! Please keep writing Chelsea😉
Profile Image for Briar's Reviews.
2,393 reviews589 followers
July 30, 2021
I'm going to be honest: Growing up in my town, ADHD was treated as a problem for kids when parents didn't want to pay attention to them. It was always some cover up and teachers always led us to believe that. It wasn't treated like an actual problem in the eyes of children. We were told that these kids didn't get to run around and couldn't pay attention because their parents wouldn't pay attention to them. And, maybe part of that was true (you never know the background and history that goes on in someone's home), but it wasn't the honest answer. Having books that give you an actual insight into what ADHD does is important. My partner has ADHD, so books like this open my eyes to what was taught REALLY WRONG way back in my childhood.

Anywho - this book does a good job.

This book follows an eight year old girl's life while she experiences ADHD. She's unique, she's special and it's just how she lives. It does point out that this can be difficult and a disability for many, but it also shows that people can manage it and make a good life. There's no reason why ADHD needs to be the end of the world - you're just different.

The different sized fonts threw me off a lot. I feel like there is a purpose, but it looked goofy having different font styles and font types. I am under the impression it's to give off the "feel" of ADHD - which is my benefit of the doubt. There has to be a reason. If there isn't, then it's kind of dumb.

I did like the water colour illustrations. Those were fancy!

Three out of five stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lulu Press for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
1 review
April 17, 2017

"I love this book. I think so many children with ADHD are misunderstood, and this story brings a little incite to the world of a child. I adored the illustrations as well as the story. The message was positive and encouraging."
Profile Image for Tom Nardone.
Author 1 book7 followers
April 11, 2017
This was a fantastic book told from the perspective of a child to children. I think this is a great book for kids with ADHD to read and I loved the art work and the balance between it and the text. Mallory is definitely a character that other kids will relate to.
204 reviews22 followers
April 11, 2017
"My name is Malory, I'm 8 years old and I have ADHA. ADHD is short for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It can mean different things for different kids. My mom says that it's part of what makes me special. She says because of it, I am unique. Being unique means that you are one of a kind. That doesn't mean I'm alone though"

This opening paragraph in the book is a beautiful beginning to a book that brings ADHD to life and evokes emotion. Malory shares the difficulties she faces everyday which is often misunderstood by society. Malory describes how fidgeting, finding it hard to stay focused and trying not to be noisy during school classes can be so hard to achieve. Malory's story isn’t unique, it just isn’t heard about a lot which is what makes this book so important.

What I appreciate about this book is Malory's awareness about her challenges and what causes them. The author has not only discussed Malory’s feelings and worries but those of the parents as well. This book has given me great insight into ADHD, the challenges, sadness, worry, tears, embarrassment and anger that can be felt within the space of a short time. I also saw the hope, learning to stay focused and find calmness through art, being able to talk about the flurry of feelings, feeling beautiful and loved by those around you.

The author instills in the reader that it is ok to be you are, no matter who you are.

The illustrations are artistic and done in beautiful watercolours. They are bright and expressive and the huge eyes on each character gives you a look into their souls. I am fascinated by each illustrated detail and how each line and stroke of colour has been done in a whimsical but somehow refined way.

Apart from the opening statement, the part of the book that impacted me the most was a picture of Malory crying a lone tear. That lone tear that we cannot understand unless we go through the struggle that the character goes through each and every day. What makes this even more compelling is that the author knows this struggle only too well considering this is her story, this was her childhood.

I would put this book in the category of easy reader and encourage not only children with challenges to read this book but any child. Giving children the knowledge of what it is like to struggle through each day is a good teacher of compassion.

Congratulations to the author on being open about being misunderstood. It takes courage.
3 reviews
June 2, 2017
Let me start by saying that I have not suffered from ADHD. I never really understood what it would be like to have a condition like that.

This book gave me insight into the mind of a child who cannot concentrate or focus her attention on one subject for very long at all. It's incredibly frustrating, as I always imagined it must be, but that doesn't quite do justice to it. Knowing that there is a very short time to measure and record information about any given thing, and then being forced to move on wheather I've finished looking/thinking/reading/whatever... that would drive me out of my mind. And that is the reality of ADHD.

I have deep respect for anyone struggling with ADHD. The fight is harder than I can fully comprehend. I owe much of that to this book.

The daily struggle against ADHD is expressed so clearly I can almost feel it myself. It is writen from a child's perspective, and for other children to read, so it's very simple and clear. Not at all like a psycological textbook. It is all the more compelling for it.

This is a great book for children and parents. It is also a great book for the general public. Buy it. Read it. Tell your friends.
Profile Image for Lucy.
822 reviews30 followers
June 28, 2021
This is a really nice and really sweet book about a little girl who is different from the peers around her. Its quite refreshing and I enjoyed this book it. I could really relate to the main character and I liked the way that the parents had made out to her that she was different but in a good way, when so many other children with ADHD are made out to be villains for the condition itself such as attention seeking behaviour etc doing it this way made me see how much easier it was for her to explain to other people and other kids why she approaches and deals with stuff differently. But is still treated like anyone else by her parents who love her for individuality despite her differences.

I like that its for kids so that kids can have awareness but also for adults too. We all need awareness on these things to change the way we look at conditions like ADHD especially in women and girls so that like many before them they dont slip through the net but they get the help they need.

With thanks to Netgalley for this free ARC in return for my honest review but also to the author who has given a voice to so many ADHD children by writing this piece.
22 reviews
May 7, 2017
How wonderful that the author took her experiences with ADHD in childhood and turned them into this sweet book! The storybook format works for younger kids, and offers them a clear but gentle way to understand why they are sometimes treated a little different from other children at school or have trouble relating to other kids. Being pulled out of class, managing medications, and learning to let a label empower vs limit them is hard for a child to understand. This book breaks it down into a simple narrative and shows a child that there are other children like them. It is wonderful to see complex issues presented in a fun way that kids can relate to. I LOVE the focus on the social element of ADHD - how the tendency to hyperfocus and daydream can be confusing to other kids. I would have benefited greatly from a story that told me about another little girl who was distracted and seemed like she didn't care about her friend who's talking or what they're saying, and it's frustrating because she actually cares very much. I still struggle with this :P
85 reviews10 followers
June 10, 2017
This was such a beautiful book. The illustrations are gorgeous, but the truly beautiful thing was the simple explanation of ADHD. I teared up reading this book because it 100% described what my daughter goes through at school. She is at an age now where the other kids are starting to alienate her because they do find her weird or different or whatever word they use for "not the same as us". Having a book like this in classrooms would help other kids to understand children who have differences from them and maybe encourage a little more understanding and harmony. I think this is a must have for every young elementary classroom!

I was provided a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. All opinions stated are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Amanda.
492 reviews11 followers
August 11, 2018
This is an amazing book. I am an adult with ADHD and this really speaks to me. It gives an accurate description of what it feels like to have ADHA as a child. The bad to the really bad and the good that that positive support can produce. I would highly recommend this for everyone to read. Not just for children that have ADHD but friends, classmates, relatives and parents of children with ADHD. It also mentions and autistic adult as one of the adults in her support system which makes this amazing book even better.
Profile Image for Kelly Winzer.
1 review1 follower
May 27, 2017
ADHD and Me does a great job of encouraging and empowering girls who are dealing with ADHD. In a world where girls often feel very alone, ADHD and Me can provide a breath of fresh air. For girls who don’t have ADHD, this book can offer encourgement that whatever your struggles, you can find beauty in who you are and what makes you unique.

Check out my full review of ADHD and Me at www.birdieandbea.com!
4 reviews
June 6, 2017
I have a hard time expressing myself in writing, but I loved this book so much that I felt that I just had to leave a review. Wow! I loved this book. The story is told from a little girl, Malory, who is 8 years old. I love how it shows her feelings, and those of her parents as well. Sometimes, people who haven't personally gone through these things just don't understand the struggles of the parents and children with these challenges and they can be quick to pass negative judgement, and it's sad, because these really are difficulties that they face. I loved the illustrations, I thought they were beautiful. I loved how the illustrations portrayed the exact emotions from the text and gave you a clear visual of how the characters were feeling. Sometimes, adults can be short tempered with kids who have ADHD, but really, children shouldn't be treated harshly for something they have trouble controlling, rather they should be given more love and patience. I think this book will be a best seller very soon.
Profile Image for Quilting Nana.
1 review2 followers
Read
April 20, 2017
I loved this book!! It is so absolutely REAL. It gives an insight to what it feels to LIVE with ADHD, not just have a child with the problem. This should be in every school library and be used by professionals to help kids with the disorder!
Profile Image for Liz.
17 reviews2 followers
July 28, 2017
This book really explained in a way what ADHD was and if anything it reminds children who maybe struggling that they are still a gift to the world
Profile Image for Amber Lyon.
8 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2017
I initially wanted to read this book for myself as I know what growing up with ADHD is like. I ended up reading it to my children as well who enjoyed it equally as much as I did. I think every child with ADHD should be read this as well as kids who knows someone who suffers from it.
Profile Image for Paulina M..
575 reviews22 followers
May 16, 2021
ADHD and Me is a book told through the voice of a child, and that celebrates neurodiversity. We follow eight-year-old Malory as she learns to express herself through art with the help of a wonderful teacher and learns to navigate life with the gentle guidance of her parents.

The illustration by Leonie Cheetham was so beautiful, and I loved the whole aesthetic of the book. However, words cannot express how wonderful, authentic, and touching Malory's story was. With every word, I could see my 9-year-old son. ADHD and Me is eerily accurate in representing his struggles, and I love that there's a book out there to which he can relate. I cannot wait to show him this book and buy a copy for my classroom!

The author's dedication touched me: "For mom, who helped me when times were rough and believed me when others didn't."

As the parent of a neurodiverse child, I deeply related to it; my heart still breaks every time his soul is crushed, and he is punished for things he can't control in the school environment.

His school experience is what led me to change careers and become an Early Childhood Educator. I believe in being the change you want to see, so I chose to get into the field because I noticed such a huge need for reform. Most times, neurodiverse children do not get the help they need and early on get "labels." I have noticed a considerable increase in anxiety, depression, and mental disorders due to that.

I love this book so much and feel that every classroom should have it. At the very least, I hope educators who read it take it upon themselves to examine their practice and seek more up-to-date, inclusive practice personal development courses. The children will benefit from it.

Also, I recommend this book to parents of neurodiverse children; I find children must see themselves represented in a positive, empowering way in their lives, homes, and classrooms. Books are the best way to do it, and they are great conversation starters!

Disclaimer: I first read it as an ARC. In exchange for an honest review, I am thankful to Chelsea Radojcic-DiCicco, Lulu Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of ADHD and Me.
#ChelseaRadojcicDiCicco #LeonieCheetham #LuluPress #ADHDandMe #ChildrenLiterature

https://frostawingsit.ca/2021/05/16/c...


Profile Image for Anna.
662 reviews
October 6, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Lulu Press for a copy of "ADHD and Me" in exchange for my honest review.

Mallory is special, unique and one of a kind. She is also 8 years old and has ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

She finds it difficult to focus, tests are the worst for her - she has to sit still, not make noise - she gets squirmy and forgets to be quiet. Teachers have trouble staying calm with her when she is talking during quiet reading time or drawing flowers on the desk.

Usually the principal calls her mother to take her home. She id distracting to others. She takes medicine in the mornings to help her focus, to keep her calm. Some medications work and some don't. Some give her tummy or head aches. Kids call her weird, this makes her angry and embarrassed. They don't care about her and that makes her sad. The art teacher is patient with her. She was born with autism and considers it a gift. Sometimes she cries and is overwhelmed but art helped her relax and stay calm. Her parents always made her feel loved.

Some of the lessons from this book are that differences are precious gifts, you should embrace them. Education is the key to better understanding. An educator is in the prime position to teach acceptance. To relieve anxiety and low self-esteem others need to not only reach out but to be patient.
652 reviews5 followers
May 6, 2021
Note: I received an ARC of this book via netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

This is a beautiful and useful book with an easy to find title. Children will love the beautiful watercolor illustrations by Leonie Cheetham. They convey a certain amount of dreaminess that represents perfectly Malory's frequent escapes into distraction. I love the the buttercup yellow of the text and the variety of fonts used. They complement the story wonderfully.

The story shows the need for support from family, mentions medications, and shows what a difference there is for Malory between teachers (and the head of school) who expect her to behave like everybody else, and her art teacher who understands that she is a little different, meets her where she is and genuinely wants to help her.

The end of the book has a note from the author aimed at parents and educators explaining her motivation for telling her story with ADHD: to educate adults, show families they're not alone, and to let children like Malory see that they are perfect just as they are.
The book ends with a picture of the author, the 'real' Malory, and her mother.

I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Lucy.
822 reviews30 followers
June 27, 2021
This is a really nice and really sweet book about a little girl who is different from the peers around her. Its quite refreshing and I enjoyed this book it. I could really relate to the main character and I liked the way that the parents had made out to her that she was different but in a good way, when so many other children with ADHD are made out to be villains for the condition itself such as attention seeking behaviour etc doing it this way made me see how much easier it was for her to explain to other people and other kids why she approaches and deals with stuff differently. But is still treated like anyone else by her parents who love her for individuality despite her differences.

I like that its for kids so that kids can have awareness but also for adults too. We all need awareness on these things to change the way we look at conditions like ADHD especially in women and girls so that like many before them they dont slip through the net but they get the help they need.

With thanks to Netgalley for this free ARC in return for my honest review but also to the author who has given a voice to so many ADHD children by writing this piece.
1 review
June 12, 2017
This book is a must have for any family that has a member that suffers from ADHD. Children need to know that others understand them, and that it is OK, even great to be different. Mallory is a great character that other children can relate to. Telling the story from her point of view is a powerful way to reach other children. It also teaches parents and family members what their loved one is going through. The story is not long but very powerful. What a simple yet brilliant way to get this story told. The authors family must be very proud!
Profile Image for Shannon Elizabeth.
297 reviews2 followers
May 25, 2021
Thank you to IBPA and Netgalley for this gifted copy.

When my son was diagnosed with ADHD 10 years ago, books that represented some of the challenges he went through daily and validated his feelings were so difficult to come by.
I love that this story is available now. Nott only can it educate others on neurodiversity but it also can help children experiencing ADHD to feel confident that their differences are positive attributes.
The school I work for follows a framework with the ideology that all children are capable of success. They just need someone to believe in them, like Mallory's art teacher Julie. We can all strive to be that support for the children in our lives.
The font changes and formating are engaging, as are the incredible bright illustrations. This is a book that can find a special place in all homes and classrooms.

#ADHDandMe #netgalley
Profile Image for Kym Payne.
Author 0 books8 followers
May 10, 2021
Most children with ADHD are misunderstood. – I know this personally, because I was one of them.
It is the same for eight year old Malory, who discusses her ADHD through her own eyes. She discusses her differences to the other children she mixes with at school, and some of the problems she has. She discusses how her mother reminds her just how unique she is, and shows us the positives of having ADHD.
ADHD and me is a brilliant, and informative book on ADHD for children. What makes it so great is the empathy that the author has, discussing the self-esteem issues and feelings that many children with ADHD may experience. – and it’s all told from the perspective of a child.
Rated 4*
Profile Image for Piper.
1,775 reviews21 followers
May 15, 2021
What a beautiful book! I Even without a diagnosis, it might help some children recognise themselves and understand some of their difficulties.

I liked how it talked about what Malory found difficult and that it was natural for her. This shows my kid that emtions are real for everyone. It showed positive role models nd explain stuff that helped. The book acknowledges that life is difficult for children with ADHD and the adults around them. These conversations need to take place to remove the stigma of this condition.
Profile Image for Steven McDonald.
95 reviews1 follower
April 14, 2017
As my 5 year old grandson has recently been diagnosed with ADHD I decided to request ADHD And Me. I'm a firm believer in letting kids be kids and treat my grandson no differently to any other child. Chelsea conveys the child's emotions perfectly, from being misunderstood by her class mates and some of her teaches to the turmoil her parents go through. A beautiful and heartfelt insight into the mind of a child. Highly recommended read.
Profile Image for Marissa Kent-white.
18 reviews
April 28, 2017
What a very sweet and simple book for young children. The main outcome of this book for a child living with ADHD is to give them a sense of hope and reduce feelings of stigma or isolation due to their diagnosis. Readers should not expect this book to provide coping skills or solutions, but rather to read for a sense of support and encouragement. The illustrations are whimsical and colorful.
39 reviews
July 8, 2021
I love this book! I think we need to talk more about neurodiverse learners and how we can listen to them and best support them. This book about Malory does that well! Also, the illustration is so colorful and lovely.

(I received an ARC from Netgalley)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews